Nature: A Metaphor for Self Anonymous 9th Grade

Throughout literature, nature imagery is used to depict a deeper meaning, and often insight into the protagonist’s thoughts and inner self. Nature imagery in the novel Siddhartha by Hermann Hesse reflects the evolution of Siddhartha’s self throughout his allegorical journey. Images of contained nature in the novel represent a contained and limited Siddhartha, while in contrast, images of unfettered nature represent a more free-spirited and open Siddhartha. It is only in uncontained nature that Siddhartha finds he can focus on himself and set aside limitations. Surrounded by nature in its most natural state, Siddhartha can put aside all limitations that result from living in a society and cultivate a more mindful, focused, state of calm and contentment.

The nature described at the beginning of the story represents how Siddhartha was limited in his Brahmin lifestyle. When Siddhartha was a Brahmin, he lived in a well-groomed palace, and this represents how he felt limited. Siddhartha had everything he could have ever wanted- power, wealth, and luxury. He was loved by everyone in his kingdom, including his family. Yet he felt limited by the opportunities offered to him in this life, specifically his inability to find the answers...